President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih on Thursday implored all Maldivians to embrace the Islamic values of kindness, generosity and caring for one another this Ramadan, as the country faces the COVID-19 pandemic.
Addressing the nation on the occasion of the holy month of Ramadan, President Solih emphasised that this year’s Ramadan would be very different from that of past years due to the precautionary measures imposed across the country in response to the coronavirus outbreak.
In his address, the President noted that "even though the community spirit and joyful air that typically accompanies the holy month will be diminished in these difficult times, we must not resign ourselves to hopelessness".
He urged all Maldivians to overcome these despairing times by practising the core values preached in the Holy Quran, such as kindness, charity and mercy.
President Solih further noted that there is no better time to practice these values than during Ramadan, as the holy month is intended for Muslims to pray, reflect on our own thoughts and actions, and keep in mind those less fortunate than us.
Underscoring the importance of being frugal during the tough times, President Solih said that "one of the most important lessons of fasting is economising food and eliminating wastage".
"Using these circumstances to make lifestyle changes such as stopping unnecessary spending and making a habit of saving for the future is important."
The President also conveyed Ramadan greetings to the people of the Maldives, and the leaders and people of other Muslim countries.
Concluding his statement, President Solih urged everyone to help each other in the spirit of Ramadan as every act of kindness, every small mercy, every bit of patience, and every prayer matters, and to acknowledge the service and sacrifice of those who are risking their lives on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic, by keeping them in our prayers.
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